New Entrant Safety Audit
It is a mandatory compliance review conducted by the FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) which aims to ensure that New Carriers understand and comply with Federal safety regulations early in their operation.
When it Happens?
- Within the first 12 months of the carrier receiving their authority – most of the audits are done within the first 3-6 months.
- FMCSA or a State partner (like State Police or Highway Patrol) will notify you and schedule the audit.
How is it conducted?
- In-person (on-site)
- Virtually (Secure portal)
What they review?
The audit covers six key categories of safety compliance:
- Driver Qualification Files
- Drug & Alcohol Testing Program
- Hours-of-Service
- Vehicle Maintenance
- Insurance Coverage
- Accident Register
Out-of-Service
If a New Entrant Motor Carrier fails to respond to contact attempts from FMCSA or a State Safety Official during the New Entrant Safety Audit process, the Carrier can be placed OOS and have their operating authority revoked. This is treated very seriously because communication is essential to proving basic compliance.
This is the top reason New Carriers lose their authority quickly.
- Your USDOT number has been placed Out-of-Service?
- Your MC number has been revoked?
- You can not operate until reinstated.